26/07/2025
keep me in your prayers, everyone. ❤️"
In 2020, when the world stood still during the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself locked inside like everyone else. With time in hand and curiosity in mind, I began consuming a lot of YouTube content especially international travel and lifestyle vlogs. It was during this time that a thought sparked within me: “Why not try something creative myself?
I decided to explore the world of visual storytelling. With no formal training, I chose to learn by observing by shadowing others and working under filmmakers. My first hands-on experience came through a senior brother who took me along for a shoot. That day changed everything. I discovered my vision I wanted to create.
I immersed myself in the work of local content creators. I was particularly inspired by talents like Rony Sharafat and many others in the Bangladeshi YouTube community. I began reaching out and, fortunately, got the opportunity to work with Rakib (RNaR) a turning point in my journey. With each new project, I learned, I failed, I improved. My dream started growing bigger.
One day, I found myself working as an assistant director in a cricket reality show. That was the moment I truly knew what I wanted to tell stories from the world of sports. Sports had always been close to my heart, and now, I had found a way to merge that love with my creative skills.
My work caught the attention of Neyon from the popular sports content brand “Neyon & On.” He invited me to join his team. There, I wore many hats content writing, videography, editing, ideation. He encouraged me, believed in me, and gave me space to grow. Soon after, I was working with some of the biggest sports platforms in Bangladesh Stories With Saif, Cricketangon, and many others. People in the sports scene started recognizing me.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. I hit a low point. I didn’t own a camera or the gear required for professional work. I felt lost and overwhelmed. But that’s when the people closest to me my elder brother and friends like Megh and Bappi Bhai reminded me not to give up. Their words became my strength.
While I was outside Dhaka, I received a call from Sadman Sakib Bhai, Media Manager of the Bangladesh Football Federation. He said, “Ortho, we want you to join as a cinematographer for the national team. Your work has impressed us.” I packed my bags that very night and arrived in Dhaka the next morning, directly heading to the stadium. That day, my dream truly began.
I witnessed the changing landscape of Bangladeshi football. And then came the news Hamza Choudhury, a Premier League footballer, agreed to play for Bangladesh. I was beyond excited. I knew this would be a historic moment, and I hoped I’d get the chance to work with him.
I first met Hamza at the team hotel. The next day, on the way to training, I nervously sat beside him and asked, “How do you feel about being in Bangladesh?” He smiled and said he loved it. He couldn’t speak much Bangla, but his warmth said it all.
I asked about his favorite EPL player “Wayne Rooney,” he replied.
Between Messi and Ronaldo? He smiled again, “Messi.” that day, as I stood behind the camera capturing Hamza on the training field, something shifted inside me. I realized: I had made it here, from nothing but a dream.
Over the years, I’ve continued working as a content creator, PR manager, and marketer. I’ve collaborated with top players and leading brands like Grameenphone, Bashundhara Group, Closeup, and more. I believe every challenge shapes us. If there are no challenges, there’s no growth.
Now, I dream bigger I want to contribute to putting Bangladeshi sports media on the global map, using my creativity, skill, and experience. I want to capture the passion, the struggle, the glory of Bangladeshi athletes and share it with the world.
I’ve learned that if you are honest with your intentions and consistent in your efforts, you can turn your dream into your reality.
